COS 101 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE

OUTLINE
❖ Definition and explanation of the term computer and computing
❖ Classification of computers based on size, data processed, and purpose
❖ Advantages and disadvantages of a computer
❖ Applications of computers in different areas of human endeavors

❖ Definition and explanation of the term computer and computing

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It
can store, retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you can use a
computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. You
can also use it to edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.
A computer is defined as an electronic device that can receive data as input, process
it into information, store it for retrieval or future use, and give out information as
output. It can perform calculations, manipulate data, and execute instructions to
accomplish specific tasks. The basic components of a computer include
the processing device (example: CPU), storage device (example: RAM, hard drive
or solid-state drive), input devices (example: keyboard, mouse, etc.), and output
devices (example: monitor, printer, etc.).

Before we talk about the classifications of computers, let's talk about two things all
computers have in common: hardware and software.

• Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such
as the keyboard, mouse, etc. It also includes all of the computer's internal parts that
can be seen or touched.
• Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to
do and how to do it. Examples of software include web browsers, games, and word
processors, etc.

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Everything you do on your computer will rely on both hardware and software.

A Computer can perform the following set of functions:

• Accept data

• Store data

• Process data as desired

• Retrieve the stored data as and when required

• Print the result in desired format.

Data and Information: Data: It is the term used for raw facts and figures fed into
the computer and along with the set of instructions which enables the computer
to convert this raw data into the refined and useful information. Information: Data
represented in useful and meaningful form is information.

Data and information are related concepts, but they have different meanings. Data
refers to raw facts and figures that are unorganized and have no meaning on their
own. Information, on the other hand, is data that has been processed, organized,
and given context to make it meaningful and useful.

Data can take many forms, such as numbers, words, images, or sounds. For
example, a list of sales figures for a company is data. However, this data by itself
does not provide any useful information. It needs to be processed and analyzed to
be turned into information that can be used for decision-making.

Information is data that has been processed and organized in a meaningful way to
convey a message or answer a question. For example, using the sales figures from
the earlier example, an analyst could create a graph or chart that shows the sales
trends over time, providing meaningful information about the company’s
performance.

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In summary, data is the raw, unorganized facts and figures, while information is
data that has been processed and given context to be meaningful and useful for
decision-making.

Characteristics of Computer

• Speed: A computer is a time-saving device. It performs several calculations

and tasks in few seconds that we take hours to solve. The speed of a computer is
measure in terms of GigaHertz and MegaHertz.

• Accuracy: A calculation or task performed by a computer is accurate the

chances of occurring errors are minimal. The errors occur in a computer by
entering wrong data by a human being. A computer performs several tasks and
calculations so quickly and accurately.

• Memory: A computer can store billions of records as per requirement and

these records can be easily accessible with full accuracy. The storing capacity
of computer memory is measured in terms of Bytes, Kilobytes (KB), Megabytes
(MB), gigabytes (GB), and terabytes (TB).

• Versatility: A computer can perform more than one task at the same time,
this feature is called versatility. For example, we can create our project
using PowerPoint and Wordpad while listening to music or we can design a
website while listening to music.

• Automation: Today the world is moving toward AI (Artificial Intelligence)

based technology. Once instructions are programmed, a computer can perform
work automatically. This feature of the computer replaces thousands of workers
by performing tasks automatically.

• Reliability: A computer is a reliable device. The output results never differ

until the input is different. If an input is the same then output won’t be different.

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• Diligence: A human cannot work for several hours without taking a rest
whereas a computer device never gets tired. A computer can perform millions of
calculations constantly with full accuracy without taking a rest.

Computing refers to the process of using computers to perform calculations,

process data, or execute programs. It encompasses a wide range of activities,
including designing hardware and software, programming, data processing,
networking, and artificial intelligence.

In a broader sense, computing involves any systematic approach to solving

problems using algorithms and computational systems.

❖ Classification of computers based on size

• Microcomputers: The most common type, used for personal or office work,
gaming, and communication. Microcomputers are relatively the smallest and low-
cost. They are called PCs (Personal computers) because only one user can use them
at a time. Its characteristics include:
✓ one processor (microprocessor or processor)
✓ the speed is determined by the number of RAM size and configuration.
✓ Different OS
✓ consumes less power than the mainframe.
Microcomputers include desktop computers, notebook computers or laptops,
tablet computers, handheld computers, smartphones, and netbooks etc.
• Minicomputers: Smaller than mainframes but capable of handling multiple
tasks simultaneously, often used in business and research.
Its characteristics include:
✓ They have high processing speed and high storage capacity than
microcomputers.
✓ Minicomputers can support up to 4 – 200 users simultaneously.

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✓ They are used for real-time applications in industries, research centers, etc.
✓ They are less in size than a mainframe but larger than a microcomputer
✓ Less expensive than a mainframe.
✓ Faster than microcomputer
✓ The users can access the minicomputer through their PCs or terminal.
✓ Different OS
✓ They are used for Transaction processing, database management.
✓ Consumes less power than the mainframe
✓ IBM (8000 series), PDP -11 are the examples

• Mainframe computers: Mainframe computers are multi-user, multi-

programming, and high-performance computers. They operate at a very high
speed, have a very large storage capacity, and can handle the workload of many
users. Mainframe computers are large and powerful systems generally used in
centralized databases. The user accesses the mainframe computer via a terminal
that may be a dumb terminal, an intelligent terminal, or a PC. A dumb
terminal cannot store data or do the processing on its own. It has the input and
output device only. An intelligent terminal has the input and output device, can do
processing, but, cannot store data of its own. The dumb and the intelligent terminal
use the processing power and the storage facility of the mainframe computer.
Mainframe computers are used in organizations like banks or companies, where
many people require frequent access to the same data. Its characteristics include:
✓ They are less expensive than a supercomputer.
✓ They use multiprocessors (up to 7 cores per CPU)
✓ They do Trillion daily transactions.
✓ Bulky data processing like census, industry statistics.
✓ Linux OS
✓ IBM z14 – z16 is an example

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• Supercomputers: Supercomputers are the fastest and most expensive
machines. They have high processing speed compared to other computers. The
speed of a supercomputer is generally measured in FLOPS (Floating Point
Operations Per Second). Some of the faster supercomputers can perform trillions
of calculations per second. Supercomputers are built by interconnecting thousands
of processors that can work in parallel. Supercomputers are used for highly
calculation-intensive tasks, such as weather forecasting, climate research (global
warming), molecular research, biological research, nuclear research, and aircraft
design. Some examples of supercomputers are Cray-1, IBM Roadrunner, IBM Blue
Gene, and Intel ASCI Red. PARAM is a series of supercomputers assembled in India
by C-DAC (Center for Development of Advanced Computing), in Pune. PARAM
Padma is the latest machine in this series.
Its characteristics include:
✓ They are very expensive.
✓ They are the biggest in size.
✓ They use parallel processing.
✓ They are extremely fast
✓ Linux OS
✓ Consumes a lot of Energy

❖ Classification of computers based on data processed

• Analog computers: In analog computers data is stored using continuous
physical quantities. It accepts the measuring device's data without converting it
into relevant codes and numbers. It processes continuous data, such as
temperature, speed, pressure, and voltage. Example are Speedometer,
Thermometer, etc.
• Digital computers: These are the most common types of computers found in
the market today. Data is processed in digital computers using discrete values (0s

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and 1s). They are used in general computing, business, education, and research.
Example: Personal computers, supercomputers.
• Hybrid computers: These are a combination of both analog and digital
computers. They are used in specialized applications like medical equipment and
scientific simulations. Examples: ECG (Electrocardiogram) machines, weather
forecasting system.

❖ Classification of computers based on purpose

• Special-Purpose Computers: they are built for a specific task or application,
optimized for efficiency in that area. Examples: ATMs, traffic control systems,
medical imaging devices (MRI, ECG machines), Drones, also known as Unmanned
Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), wearable devices (smartwristwatches, smart glasses,
fitness tracker) and industrial robots.
✓ Dedicated Computers: is a type of special-purpose computers, designed to
perform a single function repeatedly. Examples: Calculators, digital watches, and
microwave oven controllers.
✓ Embedded computers: is a type of special-purpose computers because they
are designed to perform specific tasks within a larger system. They are built into
devices to control their functions efficiently. Examples: Microwave ovens, washing
machines, smart TVs, airbag systems, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), Robotics,
Smartwatches, digital cameras, etc.
• General-Purpose Computers: They are designed to perform a wide range of
tasks, from word processing to gaming and internet browsing. Examples: Personal
computers (desktops, laptops), smartphones, and servers.

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❖ Advantages and disadvantages of a computer

Advantages of Computers

• Multitasking: Multitasking is one of the main advantages of computers. A

person can do multiple tasks, and multiple operations at the same time, and
calculate numerical problems within a few seconds. The computer can
perform millions or trillions of works in one second.

• Speed: Now the computer isn’t just a calculating device. Now a day’s
computer has a vital role in human life. One of the most advantages of
computers is their incredible speed, which helps human to finish their task
in a few seconds.

• Cost-Effective Storage: Centralized databases make it possible for the user to

store data without incurring high costs through the use of computers. This
also goes along with decreased requirements for physical storage
configurations.

• Accuracy: Another advantage with use of computers is that they are precise
in executing computations and in the handling of programs. This is because
most of the time, errors are provoked by improper entries inserted by the
user and not the computer.

• Data Security: It is possible to use security measures with the help of which
computers are protected and do not allow malicious programs and other
similar threats to access the materials.

• Enhances Communication: Computers enable people to communicate easily

and instantly with others, regardless of their location. The internet, emails,
video conferencing, and social media enable global connectivity.

• Improves Decision-Making: Computers analyze large datasets to provide

insights for businesses, science, and medicine.

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 • Enhances Learning and Education: E-learning platforms, research databases,
and virtual classrooms improve education.

• Improves Entertainment and Creativity: Computers enable gaming, video

editing, music production, and graphic design.

Disadvantages of Computer

• Cyber-Crimes (hackers, virus)

• Cyber bullying (fake news)

• Health-Issues like Eye strain, back pain, headache, carpal tunnel syndrome
(pain in the wrist and arm) etc.

• Job displacement

• Cost of maintenance and upgrade

• Lack of Concentration (addiction) / social isolation

• Can limit learning (high dependency)

❖ Applications of computers in different areas of human endeavors

• Medicine

✓ Electronic Health Records (EHR) – Store patient information digitally.

✓ Medical Imaging – Used in X-rays, MRIs, CT scans for diagnosis.

✓ AI in Healthcare – Helps in early disease detection and personalized

treatment.

✓ Robotic Surgery – Da Vinci Surgical System assists doctors in performing

precise operations.

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• Nursing

✓ Patient Monitoring Systems – Tracks vital signs like heart rate and oxygen
levels.

✓ Telemedicine – Enables remote patient consultations and follow-ups.

✓ Hospital Management Systems – Assists in scheduling and record-keeping.

✓ E-Prescriptions – Reduces errors in medication dispensing.

• Laboratory Analysis

✓ Automated Blood Testing Machines – Analyze blood samples quickly.

✓ Genomic Research & DNA Sequencing – Computers help in decoding genetic

structures.

✓ Data Analysis in Research – Used for statistical analysis of medical studies.

• Medical Diagnosis

✓ AI-Based Diagnosis – Detects diseases using deep learning (e.g., IBM Watson
Health).

✓ Diagnostic Software – Assists doctors in identifying conditions based on

symptoms.

✓ Pathology Analysis – Computer-assisted microscopes analyze tissue samples.

• Finance

✓ Online Banking & Mobile Payments – Secure transactions via apps.

✓ Stock Market Predictions – AI and algorithms analyze market trends.

✓ Fraud Detection – Machine learning identifies unusual transaction patterns.

✓ Cryptocurrency & Blockchain – Secure digital financial transactions.

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• Mathematical Modeling

✓ Statistical Analysis – Used in economics, climate science, and AI training.

✓ Weather Forecasting – Uses complex models for accurate predictions.

✓ Physics & Engineering Simulations – Models real-world problems like

aerodynamics.

✓ AI & Machine Learning – Data modeling helps train intelligent systems.

• Offices

✓ Word Processing & Spreadsheets – Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Docs for
documentation.

✓ Email & Communication – Outlook, Gmail, and instant messaging tools.

✓ Project Management – Trello, Asana, and Jira for task tracking.

✓ Cloud Computing – Google Drive, Dropbox for document storage.

• Engineering

✓ Computer-Aided Design (CAD) – Used in architecture, mechanical, and civil

engineering.

✓ 3D Printing – Helps create prototypes for manufacturing.

✓ Structural Analysis Software – Simulates stress and load testing (e.g.,

AutoCAD, MATLAB).

✓ Automation & Robotics – Used in industrial production.

• Computer Science

✓ Software Development – Creating applications and AI systems.

✓ Cybersecurity – Protecting data from cyber threats.

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✓ Cloud Computing – Services like AWS, Google Cloud for large-scale
computing.

✓ Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Machine learning, deep learning, and

automation.

• Defence & Military

✓ Drones & Unmanned Vehicles – Used for surveillance and combat.

✓ Cyber Warfare & Security – Protects national security from cyber threats.

✓ Missile Guidance Systems – Uses AI and real-time data for accuracy.

✓ Border Security – Facial recognition and biometric systems.

• Supermarkets & Retail

✓ Point of Sale (POS) Systems – Used for fast billing and inventory tracking.

✓ Self-Checkout Machines – Reduces the need for cashiers.

✓ Barcode Scanners & RFID – Track product sales and stock levels.

✓ Online Shopping & E-commerce – Supermarkets offer home delivery via

apps.

• Optometry (Eye Care & Vision Science)

✓ Digital Eye Exams – Computerized tests assess vision accuracy and detect
refractive errors.
✓ Automated Refraction Systems – Machines like phoropters and
autorefractors determine lens prescriptions.
✓ Retinal Imaging & OCT Scans – Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans
provide high-resolution images of the retina to detect diseases like glaucoma and
macular degeneration.

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✓ AI-Based Eye Disease Detection – Machine learning helps identify cataracts,
diabetic retinopathy, and other eye conditions.
✓ Contact Lens & Eyeglass Prescription Software – Programs assist in lens
fitting and prescription recommendations.
✓ Augmented Reality (AR) in Vision Therapy – AR helps in treating amblyopia
(lazy eye) and visual training exercises.
✓ Electronic Health Records (EHR) for Eye Care – Digital patient records
improve diagnosis and treatment tracking.
✓ Tele-optometry – Remote eye exams using digital tools and AI-based vision
tests.
• Government & Public Sector
✓ E-Government Services – Online portals for tax filing, birth certificates,
passports, and social benefits (e.g., eCitizen platforms).
✓ National Identification & Biometric Systems – Digital ID cards, fingerprint
scanning, and facial recognition for secure identity verification.
✓ Smart City Management – Traffic control, waste management, and energy
efficiency using IoT and AI.
✓ Cybersecurity & National Defense – Protects government data from
cyberattacks and hacking attempts.
✓ Election & Voting Systems – Electronic voting machines (EVMs) and online
voter registration enhance election transparency.
✓ Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention – Crime databases, CCTV surveillance
with AI facial recognition, and predictive policing tools.
✓ Public Health Monitoring – Disease outbreak tracking and real-time health
data analysis (e.g., COVID-19 case tracking).
✓ Government Finance & Budgeting – Digital financial management, online
tax collection, and expenditure tracking.

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✓ Disaster Management & Emergency Response – Real-time weather alerts,
satellite monitoring for disaster prediction, and emergency communication
systems.

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